Section Article

CHALLENGES IN THE PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE OF DEVELOPING A NEW INDIA
Author(s): Vijay Sharma

Abstract
The pre-construction phase of infrastructure and urban development projects in India is critical for ensuring efficient execution cost-effectiveness and long-term sustainability. Post-2021 studies highlight a range of challenges in this phase including regulatory delays land acquisition disputes environmental clearance complexities financial planning stakeholder coordination and risk assessment. The pre-construction phase encompasses site analysis feasibility studies project design environmental and social impact assessments regulatory approvals and stakeholder engagement. This research explores the challenges faced during the pre-construction phase in the context of India’s ambitious urbanization and infrastructure development goals. Utilizing post-2021 academic literature government reports case studies and empirical analyses the study identifies key barriers their causes and potential mitigation strategies. Findings indicate that inadequate planning fragmented regulatory frameworks delays in approvals lack of integrated risk assessment and social conflicts are major impediments to timely project initiation. The research further examines innovative approaches to pre-construction management including digital project management tools integrated policy frameworks participatory planning and public-private partnerships. Recommendations focus on streamlining regulatory processes enhancing inter-agency coordination strengthening environmental and social governance mechanisms and adopting data-driven planning and risk assessment methods to optimize the pre-construction phase and ensure sustainable infrastructure development in India.